Team South Africa has won its eighth medal at the Rio Olympics, with Henri Schoeman winning bronze in the triathlon in Copacabana.

 

South Africa’s Henri Schoeman has sprung a surprise to win bronze in the triathlon at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Schoeman finished behind British brothers Alistair and Jonny Brownlee on Thursday. The Brownlee brothers from Great Britain, Alistair and Johnathan, completely dominated after the swim, with Schoeman tucking into the lead group on a bike and never relinquishing his position.

He finished in a time of 1 hour 45 minutes 43 seconds.

The Brownlee’s benefitted from being able to work together, while Schoeman wasn’t able to use compatriot Richard Murray who was too far back.

In the run, the now Olympic bronze medallist moved up to third – a position he never let go of – while Murray produced an incredible run, to split the quickest of the entire field and finished fourth.

As the British pair embraced, so did the two South Africans.

The triathlete says he didn’t expect to even take part.

“A week ago I fell ill and have had a fever all week, so the doctor only gave me the ‘all clear’ yesterday. Just to be on the start line, I’m really happy – to be at my first Olympics is a dream come true already.”

Schoeman’s bronze brings Team South Africa’s medal haul to eight.

Schoeman’s compatriot, Richard Murray, finished fourth.

Murray was ecstatic with his final placing, despite not winning a medal.

“I think I’m the first winner [not the first loser] because three months ago people said I wouldn’t be here; fourth place is better than not racing in the Olympic Games.”

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Brent Lindeque is the founder and editor in charge at Good Things Guy.

Recognised as one of the Mail and Guardian’s Top 200 Young South African’s as well as a Primedia LeadSA Hero, Brent is a change maker, thought leader, radio host, foodie, vlogger, writer and all round good guy.

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